Mumbai Pune Mumbai 3

Story: The third part of the Mumbai-Pune-Mumbai franchise picks up from where the second one left off. The story revolves around their life after marriage and how their ‘well-planned’ life suffers a setback, albeit a welcome one, after they learn that they are going to be parents.

Review: It’s been almost 9 years since the first part of this franchise released and still, instances from the film are fresh in people’s minds. That film worked majorly because of the novelty value and the lead pair’s chemistry. Swapnil Joshi and Mukta Barve’s easy and crackling chemistry is also a prime reason behind Mumbai-Pune-Mumbai 3 (MPM3) succeeding in holding your attention.

Anyone who has followed the franchise or has even watched the trailer of this film will understand that the plot is very simple and there are no prizes for guessing what’s going to unfold on the screen. Post marriage Gautam (Joshi) and Gauri (Barve) are in a comfortable space, personally as well as professionally. Their ‘well-planned’ life suffers a setback, albeit a welcome one, when they learn that they are going to be parents. From then on, the film delves into how their life and surroundings change.

Despite a plain and simple story, MPM3 holds your attention. You can predict the plot but there’s hardly a boring patch in the film. There are two prominent reasons behind this, first being the cast and second being director Satish Rajwade’s observant execution which many parents would find relatable.

For Swwapnil and Mukta, this is a cakewalk, but they give it their all. Nothing seems forced in their portrayal. Ditto for their families played by some of the most talented veterans from the industry. A special mention to Prashant Damle for giving some of the funniest moments in the film, courtesy his perfect comic timing.

A major hindrance to the viewer while watching the film is the animated baby narration. It is unnecessary and could’ve easily been done away with. In fact, why it has been put in the film is a big question. Another drawback is that certain scenes seem stretched. It’s a problem because the viewer knows what is to follow and these scenes add no value to the experience.

All said and done, MPM3 works as a feel-good film that goes through ups and downs but ultimately leaves a smile on your face. Also, from the looks of it, there might be an MPM4 in the offing soon.
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